Sea House Hotel
The original Sea House Inn was built in the late 18th century, but as the sea advanced it was abandoned in the 1780’s and a new building was erected on the corner of South Street.
In the 1820’s both the Sea House and the New Inn which stood opposite were demolished.
The Marine Hotel was built on the New Inn site and in 1826 the splendid Sea House Hotel opened on its former site.
Designed by successful local architect John Rebecca it was Worthing’s leading Hotel for 75 years.
Until the Town Hall opened in 1835, inquests and bankruptcy proceedings were held at the Sea House Hotel.
In 1849 Queen Adelaide the widow of William IV stayed at the hotel, her extensive party occupied 40 rooms for a fortnight.
Soon after the visit, Royal was added to its title and over time it became known as the Royal Hotel.
The Hotel was destroyed by fire in May 1901, and almost a quarter of a century later, in 1925 a shopping precinct called The Arcade opened on the site.
The Royal prefix was added relatively recently, perfectly reflecting the plot’s historic past.
David Pateman
www.worthingsociety.org.uk
